As homeschooling parents, one of our primary goals is to help our children develop a strong sense of self, rooted in authenticity, self-awareness, and a deep connection to their inner wisdom. In his thought-provoking book, The Untethered Soul, Michael Singer offers invaluable insights into the nature of the self and the importance of cultivating a clear, compassionate relationship with our inner experience. By incorporating his teachings into our homeschooling approach, we can empower our children to navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and inner peace.

At the core of Singer’s philosophy is the idea that our true self is not the incessant voice in our head, but rather the witnessing consciousness that observes our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. As he explains, “There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind—you are the one who hears it.” By teaching our children to distinguish between their inner dialogue and their true self, we help them develop the self-awareness and emotional intelligence necessary to navigate life’s ups and downs with greater equanimity.

Our philosophy of “Question More, Action Knowledge” aligns perfectly with Singer’s emphasis on self-inquiry and inner exploration. Encourage your child to approach their inner experience with curiosity and non-judgment, asking questions such as, “Who is it that notices this thought or feeling?” and “Can I observe this experience without getting caught up in it?” By fostering a habit of self-reflection and mindful awareness, you empower your child to cultivate a clearer, more compassionate relationship with their inner world.

One powerful practice Singer introduces is the concept of the “inner roommate,” or the incessant voice in our head that narrates our experience and often causes us unnecessary suffering. He invites us to imagine how we would feel if an external person spoke to us the way our inner voice does, constantly judging, criticizing, and worrying. By teaching our children to recognize and disengage from this inner roommate, we help them reclaim their inner peace and emotional freedom.

Incorporate this principle into your homeschooling journey by encouraging your child to observe their inner dialogue with detachment and humor, rather than getting caught up in its drama. Help them understand that their thoughts and emotions are not who they are, but rather passing experiences that they can learn from and let go of. By cultivating a sense of separation between their true self and their inner roommate, they develop the resilience and adaptability necessary to thrive in the face of life’s challenges.

By discovering their true self and cultivating a clear, compassionate relationship with their inner experience, your child lays the foundation for a lifetime of emotional well-being, authentic self-expression, and inner peace. In our next article, we’ll explore practical strategies for nurturing this self-awareness and helping your child develop the mindset and skills necessary to live an untethered life.